3. pregnancy and lactation consideration

preg category A

adequate studies show no risk to fetus

preg category B

animal studies show no risk, but lacking human data

preg category C

animal studies show risk/no studies exist; potential benefit may justify use

preg category D

evidence of human fetal risk exists, but benefits may outweigh the risk in life threatening situations

preg category X

fetal abnormalities demonstrated; risk of use clearly outweighs any possible benefit. contraindicated in pregnancy

teratogens

substances capable of causing fetal malformation. risk not limited to one trimester; organogenesis in the first trimester is esp vulnerable

patient teaching

never self medicate during pregnancy; check with provider before starting any new medication, OTC, or herbal product